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WA HB1323

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/16/2025

Primary Sponsor

Andrew Barkis

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2025-2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates the crime of "obstructing highways" when 4+ people intentionally block vehicular traffic on a state highway without lawful authority, classified as a gross misdemeanor

  • Elevates the offense to a class C felony for leaders or organizers, with a mandatory minimum penalty of $5,000 (reducible to no less than $1,000)

  • Establishes "obstructing highways in disregard for public safety" as a class C felony when the obstruction creates risk of injury, impedes an ambulance, or the person refuses to disperse when ordered by police—carrying a minimum 30-day sentence and $5,000 penalty

  • Imposes enhanced penalties for repeat offenders with prior convictions for similar offenses, including a minimum $6,125 fine and 60-day sentence

  • Adds a new section to chapter 46.61 RCW (Rules of the Road)

Legislative Description

Making obstructing highways a crime.

Last Action

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.

1/12/2026

Committee Referrals

Community Safety1/16/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available